BBC Worldwide names interim CEO

BBC Worldwide has a new CEO - well, at least an interim one. The BBC announced that Paul Dempsey will be overseeing that branch of the company, beginning in December.

Dempsey is filling the role that was designated for Tim Davie, who has been called into duty as the current interim director general of the BBC. Davie is expected to return to BBC Worldwide early next year - there is a short life span of BBC director generals right now, though. Tony Hall has been announced as the incoming director general, however, and is expected to begin on the job in March.

This is a promotion for Dempsey, who is currently the managing director for consumer products at BBC Worldwide. Dempsey was selected by Davie for this role.

John Smith, the current CEO of BBC Worldwide, announced his decision to step down after eight years in charge of the company.

"BBC Worldwide is a dynamic company with exciting times ahead of it," Dempsey said. "My immediate priority will be to provide the company with leadership and direction so it can keep on delivering great returns to the BBC.”

"Paul has a great track record at BBC Worldwide and a sound understanding of the commercial imperatives that have made it an international success. I have every faith that he is the right person to lead BBC Worldwide over the coming months and make sure it carries on supporting the BBC brand around the world,” added Davie.